Emmet O'Connor

The author points out that criticial biographies of Larkin are dwarfed by those of Connolly, which include those in different languages. This is interesting in itself given Larkin's views on Nationalism and how he expressed private annoyance about Connolly's involvement in the Easter Rising and posthumous elevated stance within his union (as he saw it). The author analyses Larkin's tempestuous ego troughout his life and the impact it had on political, labour and union dealings, often a destabilising influence. While Larkin's place in history has been romantisicised through heavily favourable portraits by O'Casey and James Plunkett this book acts as a sort of balanced counterweight. The author recognises Larkin's significant place in labour history but presents a critical analysis of his muse.… (lisätietoja)